Katherine Ratliff Gay

Katherine R. Gay was born on January 30, 1940, to the loving union of Ada Foxworth and Alford Ratliff in Foxworth, Mississippi. From an early age, Katherine’s life was grounded in faith, family, and service—values that guided her throughout her life.

Having accepted Christ as her personal Savior, Katherine was baptized at a young age by Rev. Amos Payton at Christian Hill Baptist Church in Foxworth, Mississippi. Her faith remained a constant source of strength and guidance throughout her life.

Educated in the Marion County School System, Katherine attended West Marion County High School in Foxworth, Mississippi, where she proudly received her high school diploma.

On December 27, 1980, Katherine was united in holy matrimony to William Howard Gay. Their union was built on love, faith, and devotion.

Katherine was a faithful and dedicated member of New Hope Baptist Church for more than sixty years. For many of those years, she served faithfully on the Usher Board, welcoming all with warmth, kindness, and grace.

Professionally, Katherine devoted her life to a long and extensive career as a healthcare professional. Caring for others was not simply her career—it was truly her passion. Through her compassion and dedication, she touched countless lives.

One of the greatest joys of Katherine’s life was her family. She was full of love, fun, laughter, and a genuine joy for life that brightened every room she entered.

On Friday, April 17, 2026, Katherine was called home to be with the Lord.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ada Foxworth and Alford Ratliff; two brothers, Lavern Peters Sr. and Jewel Peters; and three sisters, Molly Jo, Helen McGowan, and Pearl Ratliff.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her faithful and devoted husband, William Howard Gay; her only loving daughter, Casandra Franklin (Kendall); one bonus daughter, Deshanna Gay; and one bonus son, Timothy Gay. She also leaves eight beloved grandchildren, Ashante Franklin, Tyrell Gay, Lawrence Johnson Jr.,Tyieko Gay, Kayla Smith, Kel Smith, Kaitlin Franklin, and Jabari Franklin; and four treasured great grandchildren, Karsyn Franklin, Dorrian Washington Jr., Kruze Washington, and Reignbow Washington.

Also left to cherish her memory are three loving and devoted godchildren, Patrice Johnson (Lawrence), Kerry Ratliff, Lency Ben, and Bre’on Kelly, along with a host of other relatives, friends, and loved ones.

Katherine R. Gay will forever be remembered for her unwavering faith, servant’s heart, and deep love for her family and community. Her legacy of love, compassion, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a funeral service on Friday, May 1, 2026 at New Hope Baptist Church, 1807 Reverend John Raphael Jr Way, New Orleans, LA. Service to begin at 10 AM.